Pine Brook, NJ – October 2006 – Smiths Detection, the world’s leading provider of trace and X-ray detection systems, today announced it has signed a letter of intent with RedXDefense, LLC, to jointly develop an advanced explosives screening system for the mass transit environment capable of screening 100 percent of passengers. The two companies will partner to adapt advanced RedXDefense detection technology into an explosives screening system that can meet the high throughput demands of subway stations.
"We look forward to jointly creating a high throughput, next-generation explosives detection solution tailored to meet the needs of mass transit systems," said Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection. "This new system featuring RedXDefense’s proprietary technology is extremely complimentary to the wide range of explosive detection products offered by Smiths Detection. The partnership is a tangible example of the company’s commitment to extend its technology and expertise in aviation security to other markets."
The target market for this new explosives screening system is every turnstile in America’s subways. In New York City alone, there are 468 subways stations that accommodate 4.7 million passengers daily. If deployed in New York City, this advanced explosives detection system would screen 1.45 billion trips per year.
The new detection system will feature RedXDefense’s proprietary fluorescent detection inks which allow optical detection of broad classes of explosives using simple, low-cost systems. Results are obtained near instantaneously, which enables the high-throughput required by subway systems.
"It is our belief that the RedXDefense approach to explosives detection has great synergy with Smiths' forward-looking product development efforts," said Dr. Regina E. Dugan, President & CEO of RedXDefense. "This partnership will enable the earliest possible introduction of new security screening products into the marketplace."
